Embassy of Malaysia Hosts “Baleh Makan” Celebration in Tehran in Conjunction with Malaysia Day

TEHRAN (Iran News) The term “Baleh Makan” combines elements from both the Malay and Farsi languages—“Baleh” comes from the Malay word “Boleh”, meaning “can”, while in Farsi, “Bale” translates to “yes”. This shared linguistic link reflects the cultural parallels between the two nations. “Makan”, meaning “eating” in Malay, serves as the perfect theme for an evening centred around food and communal dining, symbolizing unity and friendship.

His Excellency Khairi bin Omar, Ambassador of Malaysia to Iran, hosted the event, featuring a talented Malaysian chef presenting a selection of authentic Malaysian dishes. The chef offered attendees a culinary journey through Malaysia’s diverse gastronomic traditions, highlighting the country’s multi-ethnic flavours and cultural fusion. The centrepiece of the evening was a traditional Malaysian Kenduri (feast), featuring a selection of iconic Malaysian dishes:

Nasi Tomato (Tomato Rice): A festive rice dish often served during weddings and Hari Raya celebrations.

Ayam Masak Merah (Sweet & Sour Chicken): A Johor specialty combining sweet and spicy flavours.

Briyani Kambing (Lamb Briyani): A fragrant lamb dish with a special blend of spices, offering a mild yet distinct taste.

Ikan Masak Sos Lemon (Fried Fish with Lemon Sauce): A Nyonya Peranakan dish from Melaka, featuring caramelized trout in a tangy lemon sauce.

Sambal Udang (Hot & Spicy Shrimp): Shrimp cooked with spicy Malaysian chilies, balanced by tamarind and tomato paste.

Acar Timun (Vegetable Pickles): A refreshing cucumber pickle mixed with onion, green chilies, sugar, and vinegar.

Kuih Agar Agar Santan Gula Melaka: A coconut milk pudding sweetened with Gula Melaka, a traditional brown sugar from Melaka.

The culinary experience was complemented by a unique Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet) performance. In an extraordinary display of cultural exchange, the performance was conducted by a group of Iranian artists who studied this ancient art form in Malaysia. The artists performed the story of Siavash, a well-known Iranian folk tale, bringing a harmonious blend of Malaysian and Iranian traditions to the stage. The performance exemplified the strong cultural bonds between the two nations and highlighted the power of cross-cultural exchange.

This fusion of an Iranian narrative and Malaysian puppetry is a testament to the growing cultural ties between the two countries. Wayang Kulit, with its roots in Southeast Asian culture, is a revered form of traditional Malaysian theatre, celebrated for its intricate puppetry and vibrant storytelling.

Commenting on the event, H.E. Khairi bin Omar emphasised the significance of such events in promoting cultural diplomacy. “Malaysia and Iran share a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect and shared values. Events like ‘Baleh Makan’ allow us to celebrate our friendship and enhance cultural understanding through the universal languages of food and art. Tonight’s Wayang Kulit performance, with its Iranian narrative, symbolises the rich interconnection between our two nations.”

Among the notable attendees were diplomats from various embassies, business leaders, academics, and cultural figures, all of whom came together to celebrate Malaysia’s culture. The event was graced by Mr Mohammadi, Director General of Asia and Oceania Affairs, and Mr Mohsen Afsharchi, the Honourable Governor of Zanjan. Most importantly, the evening was made even more special by the presence of our ever-friendly and loving Iranian friends and colleagues, whose support and camaraderie continue to enrich the ties between Malaysia and Iran.

Malaysia Day, celebrated annually on 16 September, marks the formation of Malaysia in 1963. It is an occasion for Malaysians to honour the unity and diversity that define the nation. This year’s “Baleh Makan” in Tehran provided a unique opportunity for the Iranian community to experience Malaysia’s cultural heritage firsthand.